The GI and the Yellow Rose

I had an endoscopy this morning. That is where a Doctor takes a small camera to look down at your esophagus and stomach. I've had this test done before, it doesn't stop me from getting nervous and anxious about it. I usually go in to the city to see my GI specialist at the University but, when I called this time my Doctor said  she was comfortablel with me seeing someone close to home. So, I called my General physician and got the name of a local GI. John took me to see him on Tuesday afternoon, Yes, Valentines Day. What a way to celebrate right?! We did manage to go out for an early dinner after the appointment. Oh! I forgot to mention that my sweet Hubby didn't forget what day it was, I was in the shower getting ready for my appointment when he said he was going out for a cup of coffee. When I was ready I came downstairs to find him standing in the kitchen with this,

And all of the kitchen cabinet doors open. He said he couldn't find a vase! I swear he looked like a school boy standing there holding out that single rose. I loved it! Dinner and a single yellow rose from my Valentine made my day wonderful!  Even if included a Doctor's visit.

Well, the test I had done this morning went well. It was done in the clinic next to the Doctor's office. That was one of my concerns since, like I said , I've always had them done in a hospital. They put me slightly under, which I was greatful for, in order to do procedure. The doctor said everyhting looked pretty good but, he did take a sample in order to biopsy. I should get results in a couple of days. I came and had a light lunch and since I was still feeling a little groggy I slept for a few hours. I'm feeling pretty good right now except for a slight soar throat which they said was to be expected.  

The reason I went to see the Doctor was because I've been having some new stomach problems. I've had some issues for a few years now. I've always been careful with not eating anything too spicey or greasy. I don't eat fast food. I've taken Nexium and for a long time it helped relieve my reflux symptoms. But, for about a month I've had burning and some pain. I've changed my diet on my own trying to find some relief from these symptoms. I put myself on a gluten-free diet. I've also cut back on my carbonated drinks and dairy. I have been tested for any food allergies in the past with all results being negative, Thank God, but I would still like to see if this diet works for me. It sounds kind of drastic but let's see if it works. I've been to Whole Foods and found many gluten free choices. I'm also looking on-line for some new recepies. 

         

Thrifty Finds and an Easy Dessert Recipe

I hope you are having a nice Monday! The weather has been so nice and rather mild here considering it is February and comparing it to last year. We went out on Friday night to celebrate my Sister-in-laws birthday. I took some pictures on my cell phone but, my phone is STILL not letting me transfer pictures. We also did a little shopping. I hadn't gone in to my local GW until the other day. These are a my favorite finds. I'm lovin' this vintage, ironstone bowl ! I've seen them at antique stores and flea markets for a lot more than what I paid. It was only $3.99! How pretty will it look full of beautiful, green Granny Smith apples!

I found this tall container for $2.00 I want to add some Tulips for Spring decor. I so enjoy going out and finding these little "treasures".

I kept hearing about Pioneer Woman from other bloggers but, I hadn't seen her cooking show on The Food Network or read her blog. Well, this week-end I watched a few of her shows On-Demand. I especially liked the show on Stocking up and staples she likes to keep in her pantry and in her freezer. I made a list of her suggestions and plan to start stocking up on these staples :) As you might know she lives out in the country and doesn't grocery shop often. On this particular show a trip to the grocery store is due and she has to put together several meals for her family on what she has on hand. I had all the ingredients for this easy Apple Brown Betty Dessert. I was excited to make it.

3 Granny Smith apples

1- 1/2 cups packed brown sugar

3/4 cup regular salted butter

7 slices of bread (she used wheat)

3 to 4 Tablespoons of water

Peel, core and cube the apples, Cut bread slices into small pieces. Butter a baking dish, sprinkle a 1/3 of brown sugar, then layer 1/3 of apples and 1/3 layer of bread and a few slices of butter on top of bread. Repeat these layers twice more ending with bread crumbs. Pre- heat oven to 375. Sprinkle a spoon full of water and cover with foil and heat for about 45 minutes uncover and brown for another few minutes. Serve with ice-cream or whipped cream. I didn't have either and served it alone. It was still pretty tasty. I skimped on the sugar and butter trying to save on calories so it came out a bit drier than PW's. I think if you are going to make this recipe go all out and add ALL the butter and sugar it calls for. Enjoy!